FRONT Teaming Profiles
This page is designed to help facilitate connections between prospective proposers, which ARPA-H anticipates will be necessary to achieve the goals of the Functional Repair of Neocortical Tissue (FRONT) program. Prospective performers are encouraged (but not required) to form teams with varied technical expertise to submit a proposal.
If either you or your organization are interested in teaming, please create a profile via the ARPA-H Solutions Portal linked below. Your details will then be added to this page, which is publicly available.
Please note that by publishing the teaming profiles list, ARPA-H is not endorsing, sponsoring, or otherwise evaluating the qualifications of the individuals or organizations included here. Submissions to the teaming profiles list are reviewed and updated periodically.
FRONT Teaming Cards
To narrow the results in the Teaming Profiles List, please use the input below to filter results based on your search term. The list will filter as you type.
| Organization Name | Contact | Location | Description of Research Focus Area | Description of Teaming Partner | Technical Areas | |
| Accelerated Biosciences Corp. | Yuta Lee | yuta.lee@acceleratedbio.com | Philadelphia, PA | Human Trophoblast Stem Cells (hTSCs) are the earliest cells you can source without ethical issues. It has the holy grail characteristics of scale (85 PDL) and immune privilege (HLA-G). We can push hTSCs to neural progenitors in 24 hours with HLA-G intact. We have freedom to operate with over 120 patents and have already manufactured to GMP. We collaborated with the NIA using our exosomes to systematically suppress inflammation in vitro and in vivo animal studies. | We have the ideal starting stem cell source. We are looking to team up with partners with differentiation capabilities to neuronal subtypes. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Accelerated Biosciences Corp. | Sicco Popma | grants@acceleratedbio.com | Philadelphia, PA | The company's vision is to leverage the potential of human trophoblast stem cells, which are the earliest, ethically sourced, immune-privileged, genetically stable, scalable stem cells that can differentiate into neural lineages. For the current program, the company will provide GMP-grade hTSCs, support for CMC readiness and regulatory strategy. | The companies which can do in vitro graft development and in vivo validation | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| AFFOA | Guan Wang | gwang@affoa.org | Cambridge, MA | AFFOA develops thermally-drawn multifunctional fibers enabling high-channel neural sensing, stimulation, optics, and drug micro-fluidics; porous fiber lattices as vascularizable smart scaffolds; textile-integrated light/electrical neuromodulation wearables; and wash-durable woven power/data buses. DFDC and PAFF move these systems to GMP/MRL-7, supplying integrated interfaces and rehab tools that foster functional cortical graft maturation. | Seeking stem-cell and neurodevelopment labs that create vascularized cortical grafts; neurosurgical teams for large-animal and clinical implantation; experts in functional imaging, electrophysiology, and closed-loop algorithms; regulatory strategists versed in IDE/combination products; and GMP device makers to scale smart scaffold implants. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| age1 | Alex Colville | alex@age1.com | San Francisco, CA | Very interested in funding graft tissue generation and engraftment | Ambitious, pragmatic, and rigorous teams focused on tackling the core problems of graft tissue generation and engraftment | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| AkriVita | Kinneret Rand | kinneret@akrivita.com | Rockville, MD | AkriVita focuses on developing innovative 3D-printed microcapillary needles for precise, minimally invasive microinjection. Our current research aims to validate needle performance in biological systems, optimize designs for research and clinical applications, and expand partnerships to support advanced delivery solutions in neuroscience and fertility. | We seek partners with strong translational research capabilities, access to relevant in vivo models, and expertise in therapeutic delivery. Ideal collaborators will contribute to validating our microcapillary needle technology, co-developing use cases, and accelerating clinical impact through integrated technical, regulatory, and commercialization strategies. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Allele Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Jiwu Wang | jiwuwang@allelebiotech.com | San Diego, CA | Allele Biotech is a technology development team and can work as a partner in creating iPSC-based therapies, integrating solutions across engineering, development, and cGMP manufacturing. We have protocols for iPSC-induced neuroprogenitor, glial cells, endothelial cells, etc. Allele uses an industry-accepted reprogramming mRNA method that generates iPSCs without contaminating genetic elements such as integrating-prone DNA, viruses, or exogenous proteins/cells. We can edit genome with mRNA as well | While Allele’s academic partner institute and collaborators in other organizations have certain expertise and large project experience in FRONT-relevant indications, we believe that our plan could be significantly strengthened if we could have more expertise on the brain surgical procedure development portion of the program. We welcome teaming in this respect and all other possibilities. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Balt Group | Dmitry Shvartsman | dmitry.shvartsman@baltgroup.com | Boston, MA | Balt Group is a privately held French med-tech company pioneering neurovascular intervention since 1977. Headquartered near Paris, it designs, manufactures and markets flow-diverters, stents, microcatheters and embolic devices for minimally invasive treatment of stroke and brain aneurysms. Balt operates R&D and manufacturing in France and California, employs ~500 staff, and serves clinicians in 115+ countries. | We are actively seeking strategic partners in stem-cell therapeutics and targeted drug-delivery platforms aimed at treating brain diseases and enhancing cognitive function. The company wants to integrate its endovascular access technologies with novel biologics, gene, or cell therapies to accelerate clinical translation and expand its portfolio. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Balt Group | Joe Larsen | jlarsen@kensingtonst.com | Boston, MA | Balt Group is a privately held French med-tech company pioneering neurovascular intervention since 1977. Headquartered near Paris, it designs, manufactures, and markets flow-diverters, stents, microcatheters, and embolic devices for minimally invasive treatment of stroke and brain aneurysms. Balt operates R&D and manufacturing in France and California, employs ~500 staff, and serves clinicians in 115+ countries, and is headquartered in Boston. | We are actively seeking strategic partners in stem-cell therapeutics and targeted drug-delivery platforms aimed at treating brain diseases and enhancing cognitive function. The company wants to integrate its endovascular access technologies with novel biologics, gene, or cell therapies to accelerate clinical translation and expand its portfolio. We are looking for partners to lead TA1 as well as functional testing of the graft. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Battelle | Gabe Meister | meisterg@battelle.org | Columbus, OH | Battelle is the largest independently owned non-profit R&D organization in the world. Our scientists and engineers work together to solve the world's most challenging problems. For FRONT, we have novel gene delivery technology that can enable tissue engineering, neuromodulation technology to enhance tissue engraftment and function, and we can support additional Test and Evaluation in the domain of preclinical animal models and fit-for-purpose MPS systems. | We would look to team with partners seeking a multidisciplinary R&D organization that brings biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and data science expertise to developing novel tissue regeneration challenges. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Battelle Memorial Institute | Matthew Neal | nealml@battelle.org | Columbus, OH | Battelle has a well-characterized in vitro bTBI model for cells and brain slices, extensive experience with multi-omics analysis to evaluate affected tissue comparisons in various animal models, including TBI-exposed tissues, and experience with neurostimulation and evaluating functional determinations of tissues following therapeutics. | Battelle is looking for partners with novel therapeutic solutions that would benefit from Battelle's experience in cell and animal models, multi-omics, quality and regulatory components, our in vitro TBI exposure system, and/or neurostimulation and functional analysis of cortical tissues. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| BE Therapeutics | Philip Ashton-Rickardt | philip@betherapeutics.com | New York, NY | 1. Neocortex tissue engineering from hiPSC-derived cortex cell types embedded in an extracellular matrix biomaterial (PiaGel) to produce laminar, vascularized and physiologically active cortex grafts. 2. Test cortex grafts in mouse and NHP models to identify functional and durable cortex grafts. Grafts will correct disease and provide de novo neuronal networks that encode new information. 3. Produce clinical grade cortex grafts based on GMP-iPSC and pia gels 4. Clinical plan for hPoC in stroke | 1. High Image Content Screening for High Throughput Screening. To accelerate the discovery of cortex grafts by screening for pia gels that best support NPC polarization and vascularization. 2. NHP models for validation of functional cortex neuronal networks. To directly demonstrate that neuronal from engrafted neocortex is the substrate for encoding and retrieval of new information. 3. CDMO partner(s) for the production of clinical cortex grafts 4. Clinical partners for hPoC. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| BlueRock Therapeutics | Stefan Irion | sirion@bluerocktx.com | New York, NY, NY | At BlueRock we are investigating the potential of cell therapy to replace cells that are damaged or lost to disease in order to create medicines in a new way. | At BlueRock, we specialize in developing regenerative cell therapies using pluripotent stem cell and gene editing technologies. With deep expertise across the entire value chain—from discovery and GMP manufacturing to clinical translation—we are actively seeking partners to co-develop multicellular tissues and supportive matrices. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Brain Injury Association of America | Stephani Kelly | skelly@biausa.org | Houston/DC, TX | chronic brain injury - represent lived experience of individuals with brain injury | How we can provide value as community partners/lived experience feedback | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Cedars Sinai | Clive Svendsen | clive.svendsen@cshs.org | Los Angeles, CA | Transplantation of neural progenitors engineered to release GDNF into the motor cortex of patients with ALS (TA2). We also have a cGMP facility for neural cell and immune cell production (Task1), hypoimmune cell technology and big experience in translational studies into patients using iPSCs | Companies/academics with novel delivery platforms to deliver organdies or cells to the cortex with minimal damage. Bioengineering tools to help stabilize the graft and enhance survival following transplantation | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Cellanome | Dwight Baker | dwight.baker@cellanome.com | San Diego, CA | Cellanome has developed a multiomics instrument that combine fluorescent, live-cell imaging and single-cell transcriptomics with proprietary CellCage™ technology, enabling researchers to observe how individual cells interact and respond over time. The Cellanome R3200 platform provides single-cell analysis with its ability to generate a complete and integrated "biography" for tens of thousands of cells over time capturing imaging, protein expression, transcriptome from the same cell. | Partnering with researchers leveraging our live cell imaging and multiomics platform of cell measurement to: 1) measure co-culture of cells including hPSC-derived forebrain neurons and microglia, 2) hPSC-derived astrocytes can be included to create a tri-culture system regulating both neuronal and microglial function, and 3) visualize fluorescent multimodal readouts of cells with automated image analysis with longitudinal analysis at the single cell with transcriptome. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Celleo | Paul Dal Pozzo | paul.dalpozzo@celleo.com | Melbourne, Australia - but US subsidiary | We contribute intelligent production systems for the manufacture of cell therapies. Our mission is to enable cell therapies to deliver population-level health outcomes, realizing the extraordinary potential of humanity’s most powerful therapeutic modality – our cells, augmented. | We can only offer the tail formulate and fill for cell banking. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Cellino Biotech | Deniz Aksel | daksel@cellinobio.com | Cambridge, MA | Cellino is a leader in advanced biomanufacturing, committed to making personalized cell, tissue, and organ replacements a reality. Our optical bioprocess—combining closed cell culture, AI-driven imaging, and laser cell removal—has been developed for autologous iPSC manufacturing and has received AMT designation from the FDA. This bioprocess is developed for our NEBULA platform, which is supported by ARPA-H to scale high-quality, personalized cell manufacturing. | We seek partners developing cell and tissue-based therapies to repair neocortical tissue, with a focus on teams advancing therapeutic candidates alongside clear delivery and translational strategies. We offer deep expertise in converting early-stage cell protocols into scalable, closed, and reliable manufacturing processes using automation, AI-driven cell characterization, and our precision optical platform. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Columbia University | Ke Cheng | keloveamy@gmail.com | New York City, NY | The Ke Cheng Lab at Columbia University in the City of New York works on exosomes and cell therapies for regenerative medicine applications. We use a combinations of cells, cell secretome, and biomaterials. Please visit our website at www.cheng-lab.net. | Biosensing, iPSC, neural tissue engineering, minimally invasive tissue implantation to the brain | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Columbia University | Kristin Baldwin | kkbaldwin238@gmail.com | New York, NY | Rapid, reproducible and specific c generation of defined human neural cell types using combinatorially screen transcription factors. In vivo models to test function using brain blastocyst complementation to generate and test circuits derived from two species using behavior and anatomic/molecular tests. | I am looking for partners to help optimize transplantation of our defined neural cell types and to test our model (supported by data in Throesh...Baldwin, Cell 2024) that the time course of neural induction in vivo can be accelerated using internal signals and exogenous cues. We seek expertise in human transplantation and offer expertise in potential primate/rodent hybrid brain models for preclinical testing and optimization. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Diadem Biotherapeutics | Kuldeep Neote | kuldeep@diadembio.com | N/A, CA | Diadem Biotherapeutics has an innovative therapeutic modality based on engineered exosomes/EVs. The platform enables the development of multi-modal therapeutics capable of addressing diverse and complex pathological mechanism beyond the reach of current therapeutic modalities. Our lead assets are DB604, an immuno-oncology therapeutic, and DB503 targeting neuroinflammatory disorders. The Diadem platform is ideal to develop exosomes engineered to support the development of regenerative stem cells. | Diadem is looking to leverage its engineered EV technology platform to develop multi-modal therapeutics and modulators. The platform is ideal to leverage exosomes or EVs for regenerative medicine applications. An ideal partner is one that has identified multiple mechanisms in of regeneration that would be a strategically fit for developing an engineered EV as a therapeutic. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Draper | Tyler Gerhardson | tgerhardson@draper.com | Cambridge, MA | Draper is a recognized leader in biotechnology, precision instrumentation, microelectronic & autonomous systems, image & data analytics, and guidance & navigation. We have 20+ years of expertise in custom microphysiological system (MPS) development to deliver datasets derived from relevant human and animal tissue models. We have developed systems that can provide controlled injury to brain tissue cultures comprised of iPSC neurons, microglia and astrocytes with clinical response correlation. | Neocortical precursor tissue matching, surgical engraftment and monitoring, GMP & GLP, animal behavior models | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Duke University | Derek Southwell | derek.southwell@duke.edu | Durham, NC | Human neuroscience: dissection of human cortical circuits using ex vivo tissue platforms, development of cell- and virus-based strategies for manipulating human neural populations, studies of cellular engraftment in human tissues. Experience with novel cell type-targeting tools (CellREADR) that enable access, manipulation, monitoring of populations in human brain ex vivo. Neurosurgery: PI has active clinical practice and has been engaged in clinical trials of cell and gene therapies in humans. | Candidate cell products/biologics for application/testing. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| E11 Bio | Andrew Payne | arpah@e11.bio | Alameda, CA | E11 Bio, a non-profit Focused Research Organization, is developing scalable, affordable technologies for whole-brain connectomic mapping in mammals. Our PRISM platform combines expansion microscopy and stochastic neuronal labeling to enable highly accurate, automated 3D reconstruction - including synaptic connectivity - with minimal human proofreading. We are currently refining this pipeline to scale up to the full mouse brain. | E11 Bio is seeking collaborators developing precursor cell lines, differentiation protocols, or implantation technologies who wish to understand the structural and molecular outcomes of their interventions at the level of neuronal connectivity. We are particularly interested in partners who value quantitative, high-resolution assessment of tissue integration, neuronal connectivity, and circuit reconstruction across large brain volumes in both healthy and disease models. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Evia Bio | Adam Joules | adam.joules@eviabio.com | Minneapolis, MN | Evia Bio is a leader in preservation of hiPS, neuronal, and precursor cells, developing solutions to reduce or eliminate dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) using clinically aligned, low-toxicity ingredients. Our protocols enhance viability, consistency, and minimize epigenetic changes—critical for preserving cellular quality across omics profiles. We are well positioned to support preservation and banking of cells and neuronal precursor tissues for scalable storage, GMP quality, and clinical translation. | Evia Bio is eager to join multidisciplinary teams aiming to manufacture neocortical tissue by contributing our expertise in preservation, cell banking, and cold chain optimization. We collaborate closely on protocol development for iPSC-derived and mixed cell populations, tailoring solutions for viability, consistency, and omics integrity across storage and handling stages. We welcome the opportunity to connect, explore alignment, and support a well- integrated, compelling solution summary. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Evia Bio | Advitiya Mahajan | advitiya.mahajan@eviabio.com | Minneapolis, MN | Evia Bio is a leader in preservation of hiPS, neuronal, and precursor cells, developing solutions to reduce or eliminate DMSO using clinically aligned, low-toxicity ingredients. Our protocols enhance viability, consistency, and minimize epigenetic changes—critical for preserving cellular quality across omics profiles. We are well positioned to support preservation and banking of cells and neuronal precursor tissues for scalable storage, GMP quality, and clinical translation. | We are eager to join multidisciplinary teams aiming to manufacture neocortical tissue by contributing our expertise in preservation, cell banking, and cold chain optimization. We collaborate closely on protocol development for iPSC-derived and mixed cell populations, tailoring solutions for viability, consistency, and omics integrity across storage and handling stages. We welcome the opportunity to connect, explore alignment, and support a well- integrated, compelling solution summary. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Existential Heroism Institute | William James | existentialheroics@gmail.com | College Park, MD | Our research is primarily focused on producing diverse lines of brain-region-specific precursor cell types, which are essential for constructing graftable precursor neocortical tissue. These cells are a vital input to any tissue engineering pipeline focused on scaffold fabrication and bioprinting. | We are interested in teaming with partners who are focused on building tissue engineering pipelines that can use our precursor cells as an input. Additionally, consulting with teams who are optimizing engrafting procedures would help us more finely tune our production of precursor tissue to suit their needs. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| ExViva | Shupei Zhang | shupei@exvivabio.com | Bay area, CA | ExViva is building perfusion platforms to sustain and engineer brain tissues ex vivo. One of our current focus is generating vascularized, perfusabel neural grafts for transplantation, combining surgical access, perfusate formulation, and viability validation to support functional neural repair. | We are seeking collaborators in tissue engineering, bioengineering, and neuroscience to co-develop, preserve and test implantable neural grafts. Expertise in advanced imaging, electrophysiology, or in vivo validation is especially valuable. We're open to partnerships across academia, biotech, and clinical research. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Frontier Bio Corporation | Samand Pashneh-Tala | sam@frontierbio.com | Hayward, CA | Frontier Bio creates lab-grown human tissues as an ethical alternative to animal studies and is paving the way to eliminate the organ transplant waitlist. Our research focuses on vascular, neural, and lung tissue engineering, including the development of in vitro models for drug testing and disease modeling, using 3D bioprinting and precision biofabrication techniques. | Frontier Bio seeks collaborators with expertise in iPSC-derived neural differentiation, cortical tissue assembly, surgical engraftment in small and large animal models, and behavioral testing. We are particularly interested in partners focused on host-graft integration, functional assessment, and regulatory strategy to complement our vascularization platform for neocortical grafts. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Georgetown University School of Medicine | Kathy Maguire-Zeiss | km445@georgetown.edu | Washington, DC | The Neuroscience department at Georgetown spans cells to circuits to behavior. We have research focused on primary brain cells, animal models, and human subjects. Our main areas of research include synaptic and cellular plasticity, circuit plasticity, neuroinflammation, age-related neurologic disorders, and traumatic brain injury. We study basic mechanisms and novel therapeutic approaches in order to restore healthy brain function. | We are looking for collaborators that can enhance our approaches to better address ‘return of function’ using neuroengineering approaches. We are also interested in collaborations using iPSCs and organoids. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Ginkgo Bioworks | Jesse Dill | jdill@ginkgobioworks.com | Boston, MA | Ginkgo specializes in iPSC engineering and differentiation methods, and has high-throughput screening capabilities for cell imaging and characterization. | Our best fit is in support of TA1 tasks around iPSC production and differentiation; we are interested in partnering with organizations who can lead the preclinical and clinical development aspects. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Harvard University | Sharad Ramanathan | ramanath@g.harvard.edu | Boston MA, MA | Generation of complex cortical tissues with proper architecture of the human cortex | I can contribute to TA01, i am looking for a team that is interested in our in vitro work | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| IMCS, INC. | Andrew Lee | lee@imcstips.com | Irmo, SC | IMCS is leader in enzymatic production of gangliosides. Gangliosides are key components of brain lipid bilayers, involved in cell-cell communication, and neuron regeneration. Knock out models result in neurological damage and severe loss in neuronal function. | IMCS would like to produce and provide gangliosides as media supplements in iPSCs and precursor tissues to enhance neuronal function or incorporate the glycolipids as part of the tissue storage, engraftment procedures to ensure improved neuronal integration. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| imec USA | Maksym Krutko | max.krutko@imec-int.com | Boston, MA | imec is a global R&D center for nanoelectronics and digital health technologies, advancing implantable and in vitro neurotechnologies. Capabilities include CMOS-based Neuropixels probes, high-density MEA platforms for electrophysiology, and organ-on-chip systems for brain modeling. imec integrates semiconductor design with biomedical systems to enable high-resolution neural interfacing and analysis. | imec seeks TA1 collaborators with expertise in cortical tissue engineering, graft-host circuit formation, and in vivo functional validation. We aim to partner with groups skilled in iPSC-derived neocortical grafts, synaptic integration, and behavioral or electrophysiological outcome measures to support TA2 co-development of neuroelectronic platforms and translational testing strategies. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Imperial College London | Roberto Portillo Lara | r.portillo-lara@imperial.ac.uk | London, UK. | Our group at Imperial College London specialises in the development of tissue-engineered neural constructs for applications in regenerative medicine and neuroengineering; the engineering of in vitro and in vivo platforms to modulate neural fate through various biomimetic cues, including electrical stimulation, bioactive material scaffolds, and soluble factors; and the engineering of both wearable and implantable electrode systems with a fully polymeric and mechanically compliant design. | We are looking for partners that possess clinical expertise in the assessment of experimental therapeutics based on stem cell technology, biomaterial scaffolds, and tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies; expertise in experimental and translational neuroscience, with a focus on neurodevelopment and neural regeneration and repair; and expertise in cellular and molecular profiling techniques, as well as in vivo imaging techniques to track cell fate and tissue development. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| IQVIA | Marcine Snyder | marcine.snyder@iqvia.com | Falls Church, VA | IQVIA is a global leader in clinical research, real-world data, and AI and advanced analytics. We serve government and life sciences organizations to accelerate innovation across therapeutic areas. We bring significant expertise in brain health, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), evidence generation, IND readiness, and predictive analytics to advance health solutions from discovery to impact. | For ARPA-H FRONT, IQVIA seeks to join a consortium with deep scientific expertise in areas such as iPSC biology, neural tissue engineering, preclinical modeling, and surgical innovation. We offer complementary strengths in regulatory strategy, clinical trial planning to support IND readiness, real-world data, and IQVIA Healthcare-Grade AI to enable translational progress and scalable impact aligned with the program’s goals. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| JHU | ANNIE KATHURIA | akathur1@jh.edu | Baltimore, MD | We engineer human brain and neurovascular organoids from patient-derived iPSCs to model and restore cortical function. Our platforms include multi-region brain organoids (MRBO), stress-responsive cortico–autonomic systems (CHAO), and vascularized barrier-integrated constructs. These models enable disease modeling, neuromodulation, and tissue repair, with a focus on functional integration and synaptic restoration after injury. We used human iPSCs to generate brain cortical structures. | Surgical Clinical Team | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Johns Hopkins School of Medicine | Jinchong Xu | jxu31@jhmi.edu | Baltimore, MD | Our lab engineers human iPSC-derived neural platforms, including iNEST (iPSC-derived Neocortical Early-Stage Tissue) and iVBOs (immune-vascularized brain organoids), to model neurodegeneration, stroke, and brain repair. We combine stem cell bioengineering, multi-omics, and advanced tissue reconstruction to restore cortical circuitry and blood–brain barrier integrity, enabling translational therapeutic development. | Our multidisciplinary team already includes clinical neurology, neurosurgery, iPSC neural engineering, biomaterials, vascular biology, and multi-omics expertise. We are primarily seeking specialized collaborators in areas such as AI-driven cortical mapping and implantable device technologies to complement our capabilities for functional neocortical tissue restoration. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Johns Hopkins University | David Gracias | dhgracias@gmail.com | Baltimore, MD | Microtechnology, brain organoids, biochips, brain in a box | Commercial opportunities for brain in a box. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Kadimastem | Ariel Revel | a.revel@kadimastem.com | Nes Ziona, Israel | AstroRx® are clinical-grade human astrocytes developed to treat ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. In a 2020 Phase I/IIa trial in Israel, the treatment showed a good safety profile and slowed disease progression over 3 months. Following an IND submission in February 2023, the FDA cleared a Phase IIa trial to begin in the US. | Helping to improve conditions of patients with neurodegenerative diseases by AstroRx | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Kenai Therapeutics | Valeria Yartseva | vyartseva@kenaitx.com | San Diego, CA | Kenai is developing an iPSC-derived dopaminergic cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease that restores motor function by reconstituting the basal ganglia circuit, enabling durable integration, regulated dopamine release, and restores functional input to the motor cortex | Our technology restores upstream input to the motor cortex, and we seek collaborators who can apply this approach toward frontal cortex repair. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Kate Galloway | katiegal@mit.edu | Cambridge, MA | We can make neurons from primary mouse and human fibroblasts. We have demonstrated implantation and survival of these into the central nervous system of mice. Ref: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2405471225000390 Ref: https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2405471225000389 | Looking for those with measurement tools for functional engraftment and/or behavioral evaluation. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Mclean Hospital-Harvard medical School | Claudia Lopes | clopes@mclean.harvard.edu | Belmont, MA | Our group has 35+ years studying midbrain dopamine neuron development and maintenance. We pioneered patient-specific, integration-free iPSC technology, revealed metabolic changes improving iPSC clinical safety, and performed the first patient-derived autologous iPSC-midbrain dopaminergic neuron transplant for Parkinson’s. We also developed iPSC-derived human organoids and have expertise in IND-enabling studies and FDA liaison. | We are looking for a group with expertise in organoid vascularization and ECM integration as well as production scalability. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| 'Mone Hormone Health & Wellness | Joanna Riley | joannameriley@gmail.com | Boston, MA | ‘Mone is developing a wearable hormone nowcasting system to track cortisol, estradiol, and circadian patterns via sweat biosensing. While built for consumer use, our platform may support neocortical recovery by providing real-time biofeedback on stress, mood, and cognitive function. We see future potential in optimizing therapy timing, enhancing neuroplasticity, and identifying recovery biomarkers through hormone-driven insights. | ‘Mone seeks partners in neuroscience, cellular biology, and digital health to co-develop wearable biosensors for neurorecovery. We want collaborators with expertise in neuroplasticity, biomarker validation, and clinical trials to integrate hormone-based biofeedback into regenerative therapies. Ideal partners advance translational research, share commitment to precision recovery, and bring regulatory and commercialization experience. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Monomer Bio | Jimmy Sastra | jimmy@monomerbio.com | San Francisco, CA, USA, CA | Monomer Bio is a software platform for organizing and analyzing growth and characterization data produced by automated cell culture systems. Our Culture Monitor solution not only ingests and structures important data, it also allows researchers to operate their automated systems from their laptop powered by image-based ML-aided decision making. We specialize in disease modeling, stem cell differentiation, and cell engineering workflows. | We seek biology partners in developing disease models. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| MPR Associates | Eric Claude | eclaude@mpr.com | Alexandria, VA | MPR's Health and Life Science Team provides services for design, development, engineering, and testing for medical device, diagnostics, biopharma and cellular/regenerative therapies. We help innovators accelerate time to market with novel medical technologies, reduce risk for patients, improve operational efficiencies, and ensure regulatory compliance. With our team of 250 engineers, designers, and scientists, MPR’s expertise supports translation of innovations from lab to production. | MPR seeks to partner with Performers or other Spokes who wish to leverage our capabilities to reduce risk and accelerate commercialization including through: technology evaluation, solution definition, and concept design; rapid development for bench-top feasibility, preclinical, and human clinical studies; product commercialization planning and road-mapping; design and development for rapid scale-up, automation, and deployment; and development of FDA-required documentation. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| MPR Associates | Cameron Loper | cloper@mpr.com | Alexandria, VA | MPR is a world-class engineering and project management firm founded in 1964 and located in Alexandria, VA. In healthcare, MPR applies engineering, science, and design to de-risk development of Medtech innovations and ensure successful translation to market-ready products. For 30 years, MPR has supported commercialization of dozens of novel medical devices and drug delivery systems. MPR’s ISO 13485 certified quality system ensures deliverables are fully compliant with FDA's regulations. | MPR is looking to partner and support research entities in the fulfillment of the goals of the ARPA-H program. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| MyStemCells.life | David Medrano | dmedrano@mystemcells.life | Dallas, TX | using the patients own blood to make induced pluripotent stem cells and then further differentiating them into progenitor cells | We are looking for a neocortex tissue expert researcher in this area. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Mytos | Ali Afshar | ali@mytos.bio | London, UK | Automated production of the iPSC-derived cell types required for the grafts, including GMP production. Our iDEM platform fully automates iPSC differentiation, and we're working with clinical stage companies like Aspen Neuroscience on producing differentiated cells for the clinic. | A consortium designing the tissues, who need automated non-GMP and GMP production | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Nahlia Inc | Jayant Menon | jayant@nahlia.com | Palo Alto, CA | We are developing a high density subgaleal closed loop stimulation system ideal for closed loop transcranial stimulation of engineered cells. | We are looking for partners in engineered neuronal cell populations, particularly those cells responsive to shaped electrical fields. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Nanyang Technological University | Richard She | richardsheshe@gmail.com | Singapore, Singapore | CRISPR engineering of iPSCs | Anyone interested in using the latest CRISPR tools to improve the functional properties and survival of neuronal grafts | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Nathan Kline Institute/NYU | Anna Roe | anna.roe@nki.rfmh.org | New York, NY | Nonhuman primate brain organization, circuitry, behavior | surgical stroke and implant methods | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| New York University | Roy Maimon | roy.maimon@nyu.edu | New York City, NY | New York University (NYU) is a leader in interdisciplinary biomedical innovation. Our current team integrate engineering, neuroscience, and bioinformatics to develop high-impact therapies for inducing brain regeneration and repair. | As part of New York University (NYU), a leading hub for interdisciplinary innovation, we are seeking partners who bring complementary expertise in areas such as tissue manufacturing, advanced structural imaging, behavior and clinical translation. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| NEXI Biotech | Case Lorance | Loranceconsulting@gmail.com | Gainesville, FL | Our organization develops modular in vitro platforms to assess neural circuit function using high-resolution electrophysiology. We focus on quantifying functional connectivity, tissue integration, and pharmacological response across model systems to support CNS repair and regeneration strategies. | We are seeking partners with expertise in cortical tissue engineering, large animal behavioral neuroscience, and regulatory/GMP readiness. Ideal collaborators can generate clinically relevant neocortical precursor tissue or run focal cortical injury models in NHPs or swine. We also welcome collaborators with experience in ELSI, patient engagement, or FDA IND-enabling studies. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| NieuHealth | Zakreya Mahamud | zakreyam27@gmail.com | San Francisco, CA | Our device (NieuRobot) is meant to safely enable optogenetic and photo-ablative capabilities at the neocortex with layer level specificity. The broad four categories of research using our device are as follows: 1. Targeted clearing of glial tissue & damaged cells. 2. Functionalizing graft supplied neuronal cells. 3. Training neurons per region for site specific circuits. 4. Validating efficacy of neuronal integration. | Our organization is looking to partner with teams seeking a scalable solution to removing scar tissue that would otherwise hinder surgical engraftment of the precursor tissue. As well as alleviating the difficulty involved with differentiating the neocortical tissue post-engraftment. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| NYU Grossman School of Medicine | Robert Froemke | robert.froemke@med.nyu.edu | New York, NY | Studies of functional integration and cortical synaptic plasticity, including neural and behavioral readouts of cortical repair and improved performance | Molecular or surgical expertise | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| panluminate | Ons M'Saad | ons.msaad@panluminate.com | New Haven, CT | Panluminate develops pan-Expansion Microscopy (pan-ExM), a platform for large-volume, nanoscale imaging of brain tissue. We specialize in neural circuit tracing, spatial proteomics, and cytoarchitecture reconstruction to assess graft structure, connectivity, and function in preclinical models. | We seek partners developing neocortical grafts who need high-resolution tools to validate tissue structure, circuit formation, and synaptic integration. Ideal collaborators include teams engineering iPSC-derived tissue or conducting functional graft studies in small or large animal models. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Planned System International | Thomas Berti | Tberti@plan-sys.com | Arlington Va, VA | PSI provides mission-critical digital infrastructure and AI solutions for the life sciences and healthcare sectors to the Federal Government. Our core expertise lies in developing integrated platforms for advanced data management, computational analytics, and automated, compliant manufacturing. We also own and operate a leading Electronic Health Record (EHR) application, giving us unparalleled insight into clinical trial management and regulatory pathways. | PSI is uniquely positioned to serve as a central data and technology partner for a FRONT consortium. We offer end-to-end support for a project's digital needs | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| R3 Biotechnologies, Inc | John Schloendorn | john@r3-bio.com | San Juan, PR | We have capabilities in pluripotent stem cell derivation, naive pluripotency, cell differentiation, genome editing & in vivo. We do not plan to derive our own therapeutic grafts, but can contribute technical help and existing materials, cell lines etc in our focus areas. | We're looking for partners who derive therapeutics and need technical help or materials in our focus areas. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| RenewalBio | vladislav krupalnik | vladik@renewal.bio | Rehovot, Isreal | RenewalBio leverages Stembroid models that mimic natural embryonic development to produce authentic human cells, bypassing reliance on donor tissues or adult stem cells. Stembroid technology uses induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as the starting material to create patient transplantable cells by mimicking natural development through 3D organoid models. Our technology enables the generation of best-in-class neural precursors and also viable graft tissue for transplantation. | We are looking for partners that can help with the hypoimmune cell source and GMP capabilities for manufacturing ones, CDMOs that are oriented for cell therapy, and companies that are working on methods of tissue validation. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Rice university | Chong Xie | xiechong@gmail.com | Houston, TX | Electrophysiology using implanted flexible electrodes. | We have expertise in TA2 and look for a graft team graft team. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| San Diego Regenerative Medicine Institute | Xuejun Parsons | jparsons001@san.rr.com | San Diego, CA | San Diego Regenerative Medicine Institute (sdrmi.org) is focused on human embryonic stem cell-based advanced regenerative medicine therapies to address the unmet medical needs for a wide range of neurological and heart diseases. SDRMi is a major innovator in the regenerative medicine market, holding the patents/IP for large scale production of high quality clinical grade hESC-based human neuronal and heart cell therapy products for neuron/heart tissue repair/regeneration and bio-fabrication. | SDRMI is looking for partners and collaborations that provide resources and funding | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Science Corporation | Aaron Bartnick | aaronb@science.xyz | Alameda, CA | Biohybrid neural interfaces | Seeking collaboration on iPSC GMP scale-up and biomaterials / scaffolding | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Science Corporation | Alan Mardinly | alanm@science.xyz | Alameda, CA | Biohybrid brain machine interfaces | We're looking for partners in biomaterials and GMP scale up of iPSCs and neural precursors | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Scintillon Research Institute | Guoping Fan | guopingfan@scintillon.org | San diego, CA | Epigenetics, Stem cells, Neural development and neurodegeneration | Neurosurgeon and neurologist as well as neuroscientist working on brain injury | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Sophrosyne Bio | Jesse Horwitz | jesse@sophrosynebio.com | NEW YORK, NY | We are working to create developmentally realistic cortical tissue grafts | The work to hopefully validate these grafts functionally, secure regulatory approval for them, and get them to market would be quite substantial, and we're interested in talking with potential partners interested in different pieces of this work | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| SRI International | Danuta Sastre | danuta.sastre@sri.com | Menlo Park, CA | SRI International is a non-profit R&D organization with over 75 years’ tradition in innovation and strong track record of successful performance on large collaborative government projects. SRI Biosciences teams have developed cell-specific, brain-penetrant, systemic delivery platforms allowing graft monitoring and manipulation in vivo. We have expertise in iPSC differentiation (neurons, glia) and genome engineering of iPSCs (multiple CRISPR modalities, custom screening libraries). | We are seeking to partner with prime performers of TA1 by contributing to the areas of genome editing (CRISPR) engineering of iPSCs; iPSC-differentiation (cortical neurons; microglia); cell-specific in vivo delivery of payloads (proteins, nucleic acids); transcriptomics analyses of precursor cells. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Stanford University | Ryann Fame | fame@stanford.edu | Stanford, CA | Neural fate transitions in vivo: Neurectoderm to neuroepithelial specification Cell-intrinsic programs of corticogenesis / migration/ projection Neural stem cell niche (hu, pig, mus): Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as cell-extrinsic signals supporting neurogenesis (proteins, ions, metabolites) Harnessing choroid plexus to supply CSF solutes to neural progenitors. Surgical approaches in young brain (mus): In utero CSF collection/ analysis Ultrasound-guided cell and tissue delivery (E9-postnatal) | Committed, collaborative, communicative teams with expertise in directed differentiation, tissue engineering, and electrophysiological / behavioral evaluation of grafts. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Stanford University | Kyle Loh | kyleloh@stanford.edu | Stanford, CA | We have developed methods to differentiate human pluripotent stem cells into artery and vein endothelial cells (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35738284/), as well as forebrain and hindbrain neurons (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40631129/). | Anything! | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Syntax Bio, Inc | Brad Merrill | brad@cellgorithm.com | Chicago, IL | Syntax’s technology, "Cellgorithms," enable robust conversion of iPSCs into defined cell types via programmable epigenetic circuits. By working cell-autonomously, it can program multiple different cell differentiations in a one-pot cell culture. It can activate nearly any endogenous gene, providing the opportunity to customize the underlying biology of differentiated cells to meet engineering specifications. We used it for diverse target cell types, including a neuronal progenitor. | We are looking for partners who see the value of innovating on the generation of cells and have needs for sourcing cells with known biological properties. Examples may include different types of neural precursors all generated in the same media, neuronal precursors with controlled differentiation biases, or vascular/hematopoietic/neuronal cell types from a single iPSC line. We are looking for partners with expertise for TA2 (physiology, surgery, transplantation) and need better cell engineering. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| The Rockefeller University | Alex Epstein | alexander.epstein96@gmail.com | New York, NY | We specialize in high-throughput single-cell genomics to monitor cell population changes in the brain during the aging process. This technology will be especially useful for production of graft precursor tissues, to confirm that the tissue organization and cell subtype distribution corresponds to young brain tissue. | I will be graduating from my PhD shortly and would be interested to join a team with a strategy to produce precursor tissues and implant surgical grafts, which needs support in in quality control and optimization of the process to mimic young healthy tissue as closely as possible. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Triple Ring Technologies | Vrad Levering | vlevering@tripleringtech.com | Newark, CA | Triple Ring Technologies is a leading partner in developing science-driven products across medtech and life sciences. Our interdisciplinary team, including many PhDs, excels in advancing technologies to FDA approval while collaborating with academic researchers. We have engaged with ARPA-H, both as subcontractors and primary awardees. We offer services for development of devices such as surgical tools to aid in graft delivery, assay development, and implantable sensors. ISO 13485 certified. | We partner with innovators to solve tough problems and create new businesses. From concept to FDA submission and commercialization, we handle technology development and redesign, as well as complex system integration. We are looking for teaming partners that could use our collaborative assistance to design enabling devices and technologies while navigating the FDA regulatory pathway. We have acted as primary, subcontractor, or vendor on previous submissions. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| Trylle Biologics, Inc. | Frank Zeigler | info@trylleinc.com | Carlsbad, CA | Trylle Biologics functional biomaterials platform is based on tunable, GMP-grade, human-cell-derived ECM scaffolds and hydrogels capable of mimicking the native brain extracellular matrix. | Trylle seeks partners with expertise in neural tissue engineering, cortical transplantation, electrophysiology, and BMI integration—particularly teams advancing TA1–TA3 solutions needing tunable ECM scaffolds or dielectric biomaterials. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Unicorn Biotechnologies | Jonathan (Jack) Reid | jack.reid@unicornb.io | Newark, NJ | Unicorn Bio builds autonomous cell manufacturing insturments and end-to-end solutions for iPSC-derived cell, tissue, and organ manufacturing. Our R&D focuses on two thrusts. 1) engineered systems to mechanize cellular R&D and bioproduction (robotics & hardware, sensing and control systems, machine intelligence) and 2) iPSC-based molecular engineering (genetic control switches, cell line engineering, bioprocess & engineered tissue development). | We are looking for three things. 1) An organization with a neocortical graft concept in search of a manufacturing solution - blue sky ideas welcome. 2) An organization strong in iPSC/protocol development looking for assistance in scalable engineered tissue development. 3) Anyone using manual TC who wants to decouple cellular production from manual labor. We are a nimble team of scientists, engineers, and do-ers keen to see if we can help you out in any way! | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Colorado | Rebecca Ihrie | rebecca.ihrie@cuanschutz.edu | Denver, CO | Development of the neocortex and study of pediatric human brain | Expertise in large animal model engraftment | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| University of Colorado/Children's Hospital Colorado | Kevin Ess | kevin.ess@childrenscolorado.org | Denver, CO | Developmental neurobiology, biomedical engineering, large animal models | Complementary expertise in bioprinting, production, and analyses of cerebral grafts. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Georgia | Lohitash Karumbaiah | lohitash@uga.edu | Athens, GA | We have developed a novel brain tissue replacement scaffold that has demonstrated chronic neuroprotection and large-scale cellular and vascular repair in severe traumatic brain injury lesions. Our team of investigators have expertise in small and large animal models of ischemic stroke and traumatic brain injuries. | We are looking for potential teaming partners with neurobiology and systems neuroscience expertise. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Daniel Llano | d-llano@illinois.edu | Urbana, IL, IL | Novel organoid development, brain/neurovascular imaging, neurophysiology | Clinical implementation and clinical assessment of graft integration | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | HYUNJOON KONG | kong0630@gmail.com | Urbana-Champaign, IL | We aim to develop scalable, reproducible biomanufacturing of stem cell-derived neural grafts for brain repair. Using our patented soft robotics platform, we assemble 2D cell sheets with exosome-driven cues to generate functional, transplantable neural tissue for clinical translation and precision neuroregeneration. | We seek clinical and industry partners to advance the scalable biomanufacturing of stem cell-derived neural grafts and enable their validation in large animal models. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN | Martha GILLETTE | mgillett@illinois.edu | Urbana, IL | Neuroscientists and engineers on the Kong-Gillette team work with hiPSCs for human brain organoids. From these, 3D structures emerge and self-organize, expressing appropriate functionality. | We would benefit from additional expertise related to: 1) policy, 2) interfacing with the FDA, and 3) GMP production. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Kansas School of Medicine | John Stanford | jstanford@kumc.edu | Kansas City, KS | We bring expertise in cortical mapping and measuring circuit connectivity over time during behavioral tasks in rats and monkeys using electrophysiological and anatomical methods. We have extended functional behavioral and physiological measures of cortical connectivity and cortical plasticity from forelimb to orolingual motor tasks. Our research areas include cortical plasticity and rehabilitation in aging, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). | We will be working with partners at other organizations who bring expertise in cell therapy and human cell-based cortical assembloids, as well as large animal neurosurgery, GLP/GMP, and clinical trials. We are looking for potential partners with expertise in ELSI and patient engagement, commercialization, and regulatory processes. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Maryland Baltimore | Yajie Liang | yajie.liang@som.umaryland.edu | Baltimore, MD | Multimodality in vivo imaging of organoids after transplantation (MRI, bioluminescence imaging, two-photon microscopy) | Tissue engineering experts who are experienced in producing or engineering cortical organoids | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Maryland Baltimore | Piotr Walczak | Pwalczak@som.umaryland.edu | Baltimore, MD | Our Program on Image-Guided Neurointerventions develops small and large animal models of neurological diseases to advance precision therapies. We focus on image-guided drug and stem cell delivery to the brain, including targeted blood-brain barrier opening. Our work also includes organoid implantation and translational strategies bridging preclinical innovation with clinical application. | Teams with protocols for generation of regionally-specific organoids | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Maryland, Baltimore | Miroslaw Janowski | miroslaw.janowski@som.umaryland.edu | Baltimore, MD | My neurosurgical research focuses on large animal models of brain diseases, particularly stroke, also through Ti-com, a company I co-founded and co-own. Our porcine stroke induction technology serves clients including Medtronic, startups, and academic institutions. This platform is ideal for testing cortical grafts and pairs with intravital microscopy and functional assessments (EEG, fMRI, hyperpolarized MRI). I also work in regenerative medicine: cell transplantation and genome editing. | We develop cortical organoids in vitro and explore neocortical tissue replacement therapies in small animals. Strategic collaboration with stem cell and neuroscience biology groups would be highly advantageous, particularly those developing advanced multilayer human cortical grafts and interested in parallel development of porcine or other large animal grafts, which would be optimally positioned for comprehensive testing their clinic-ready solutions in our large animal stroke models. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School | Gabriella Boulting | gabriella.boulting@umassmed.edu | Worcester, MA | My laboratory uses human stem cells and non-human primate tissue paired with genomic and single cell technologies to discover novel and primate-evolved aspects of human neuronal development and plasticity. By studying the non-human primate and human signaling pathways that are regulated by neuronal activity we identify new molecular regulators of neuronal survival, maturation, synapse formation, and disease. | We are interested in teaming with neurologists and transplant experts to test the benefits of modulating these primate-evolved signaling pathways on graft survival and function. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Michigan | Kevin Chen | kechen@med.umich.edu | Ann Arbor, MI | My research centers on interneuron pathology and neural hyperactivity in neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's disease and ALS). Our vision is the development of a cell therapy to restore inhibitory regulation in neurodegenerative disease. We have expertise using iPSC/in vitro models for mechanistic studies. We also have expertise with intracranial cell transplants in rodent models and large animals (sheep, non-human primates), along with behavioral tests (memory/cognition and motor tasks). | We seek team members who can provide precursor material that can recapitulate the full cellular complement of a tissue graft (including relevant neuronal cell types, glia, etc.) and establish a GMP-grade bank of cells/tissue. While we could perform surgical optimization and pre-clinical testing/behavior, experience with the IND process and translation to early clinical trials would also be useful. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| University of Pennsylvania | Han-Chiao Isaac Chen | Isaac.Chen@pennmedicine.upenn.edu | Philadelphia, PA | We are interested in developing stem cell-derived neural tissues, investigating the circuitry and activity of these tissues, and examining the connectivity and functional integration of these tissues after transplantation. We have significant experience with neural tissue transplantation in small animal models and also have experience in large animal surgeries. | We are interested in discussing with others ideas for different neural repair substrates that are being developed. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| University of Texas Health San Antonio, Joe R. & Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine | Marcel Daadi | mdaadi@neoneuron.org | San Antonio, TX | We are developing neural precursor cell transplantation therapy for replacing brain cells lost to injuries or diseases. We developed novel neural cell production method from pluripotent stem cells that functionally engraft, repair grey and white matters and blood brain barrier (neurovascular unit). Our neural cells functionally integrated into the cortex of nonhuman primates with neocortical injury and improved cognitive and sensorimotor performances, sleep quality and emotional dysfunctions. | We are looking for potential teaming partners, that could enhance our cell product, through novel product combinations, novel formulations for delivery and preservation, biomarkers for longitudinal monitoring, scaling up and GMP production, performing GLP IND enabling studies, regulatory support for IND submissions or other synergistic partnerships. We can also offer image-guided cell delivery into the brain. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Utah | Alex Shcheglovitov | alexsh@neuro.utah.edu | Salt Lake City, UT | We have developed a new method for generating telencephalic brain organoids from isolated stem cell-derived single neural rosettes (PMID:40579542 and PMID:37576248). Single neural rosette-derived brain organoids develop predictable organization and highly reproducible cell composition. This approach will be useful for generating human cortical tissue for transplantation to restore cortical function. We also successfully transplanted human iPSC-derived neurons in the mouse cortex (PMID:33558651). | 1) Production of cGMP -compatible stem cells and organoids; 2) Engineering approaches to facilitate surgical procedures and transplantation; 3) Automation to enhance the efficiency of organoid generation; 4) Behavioral assays for assessing organoid integration in the neural networks. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| University of Washington Applied Physics Laboratory | John Kucewicz | kucewicz@uw.edu | Seattle, WA | The Center for Industrial and Medical Ultrasound (CIMU) is a multidisciplinary research unit with the University of Washington's Applied Physics Laboratory. CIMU conducts its own research and partners with industrial and academic partners to tackle problems in therapeutic and diagnostic ultrasound. Our areas of extersise include in vitro studies, small and large animal in vivo studies, and human clinical trials, high-intensity ultrasound, tranducer and amplifier design, and non-linear acoustics. | We are looking to partner with stem cell researchers looking to incorporate ultrasound as a stem cell promotor in TA2. | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| UT Health San Antonio | Mark Goldberg | Goldbergm@uthscsa.edu | San Antonio, TX | Our team will use vascularized cortical organoids derived from human or non-human primate iPSCs to reconstruct damaged regions of the primary motor cortex in adult baboons. The goal is to establish targeted, functional synaptic connections with downstream motor circuits while minimizing maladaptive plasticity. This approach is informed by advances in stem cell biology and the identification of pro-regenerative transcriptomic programs in motor cortex projection neurons. | Our interdisciplinary team has expertise in translational neuroscience, non-human primate biology and behavior, high resolution brain and spinal cord imaging. Potential teaming partners might support experience in cell-based technology development and commercialization. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| VG2PLAY | Bruce Hecht | bruce.hecht@ieee.org | Cambridge, MA | Sensing for biomarkers in changes as treatments and therapeutics are applied for patients. Current and proposed research on hormones and their interaction for brain function, tissue generation, and integration of diagnostics and therapeutics | Tissue technologies, patient understanding, measurement technologies | TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration, TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function |
| Virscio | Matthew Lawrence | mlawrence@virscio.com | New Haven, CT | Virscio is a translational research company accelerating the development of innovative therapeutics through validation and application of the most informative preclinical models to screen candidate interventions. Virscio conducts humane, sustainable nonhuman primate research augmented by advanced tissue pharmacodynamics through histopathology and molecular analyses to generate the data necessary to drive development decisions of our many clients and collaborators. | The ultimate objective behind Virscio translational initiatives is predicting clinical efficacy and safety to the greatest extent possible through the most strategic and thoughtful use of animal resources, analytic tools, and data analysis. We are seeking partners with capabilities in iPSC cell derivation, tissue culture and incubation, neurosurgery, sequencing, bioinformatics, gene regulation, and neurophysiology to join us in realizing this objective. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Weill Cornell Medicine | Ben Huang | bsh2002@med.cornell.edu | New York City, NY | Functional characterization of graft brain tissue in awake behaving animal models through in vivo imaging and electrophysiology. | Partners with graft precursor tissues in need of direct in vivo functional characterization. | TA2b: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by graft function, TA2a: Optimization of surgical engraftment procedures as mearsured by neuronal and vascular integration |
| Wonderlab Bio | Taekyoung Kwak | taektyoung@wonderlab.bio | Boston, MA | WonderLab Bio is a cell therapy company committed to providing a diverse range of human iPSC-derived cells from our cell bank, which includes over 85,000 donor lines. Our current focus is on advancing the generation of iPSC-derived cell types. Our primary goal is to produce high-quality, reproducible iPSCs and differentiated iPSCs that meet rigorous standards for clinical-grade applications. Also, we are optimizing the scalability and efficiency of our manufacturing processes to reduce costs. | Under the FRONT program, the goal is to restore brain function by grafting healthy neocortical tissue. WonderLab Bio is a cell therapy company with the capability to generate fully differentiated, clinical-grade normal cortical tissue from an allogeneic source of human iPSCs. We are seeking collaboration with leading neuroscientists and regulatory experts to advance this innovative program and bring the promise of the FRONT initiative closer to clinical reality. | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |
| X-Therma Inc. | Mark Kline | mkline@x-therma.com | Berkeley, CA | We have been at the forefront of practical and implementable technology for preserving cells, tissues, and organs. Recently, we completed the World's first subzero transport of organs, and across the Atlantic. This trip is now a routine part of research for us. We also have the Breakthrough Device Designation from the FDA. We can push the preservation of whole kidneys to multiple days, instead of just hours. Let's chat on all of our wide-ranging abilities! | To assist in your preservation needs, including fresh never frozen shipping with XT-Novo and TimeSeal, and deep freezing for banks of cells and tissues. Our products are based on a new cryoprotectant we developed from peptoids. We will run you through a presentation to help you learn more :) | TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues, TA1: Production of graft precursor tissues |